JEWELLERY QUARTER www.jewelleryquarter.net LIVE LEARN WORK VISIT
ISSUE ELEVEN
AT T H E JO IN U S
2017
28-30 July
WELL SEASONED Where to eat and drink in the JQ this summer.
BE OUR GUEST STAY WITH US.
HISTORY STILL STANDING
JQ AL FRESCO WE’RE GOING OUT TO EAT.
HOW MANY HAVE YOU VISITED?
QUARTER LIFE – THE MAGAZINE FOR THE JEWELLERY QUARTER
FEEL HAPPY EVERY TIME YOU SMILE Get 10% off If you’re a local business or resident
For over 30 years we’ve been delivering the very best in cosmetic dentistry and dental implant surgery.
Contact us today to arrange your consultation.
Based in the heart of Birmingham city centre on St. Paul’s Square, we are a beautiful private practice. Using only the latest equipment and technology for the best results; such as our inhouse top of the range CT scanner for ultimate precise implant placement.
Studio 1, 51 St Paul’s Square, Birmingham B3 1QS 0121 233 0867 info@dazzlingsmile.co.uk www.dazzlingsmile.co.uk
Hello Luke Crane, JQBID manager
WELCOME TO THE ELEVENTH ISSUE OF QUARTER LIFE THE MAGAZINE FOR THE JEWELLERY QUARTER.
T ON THE COVER
Roni Ferro is the general manager of Pasta Di Piazza and co-owner of Cucina Rustica. Read our Dine in the JQ supplement to find out more.
NEXT ISSUE If you’ve got an interesting story you’d like us to consider for the next issue of Quarter Life, please email suzie@barques.co.uk
he Jewellery Quarter has long been the icing on Birmingham’s cake when it comes to food and dining out.
In recent years, the JQ has seen so many fantastic restaurants open their doors, win awards, and boost visitor numbers to our already great area. Our very own UCB’s College of Food has produced some of the finest chefs in the country, and we have a collection of truly unique dining experiences, as well as traditional, fine dining, and food to go. To put it simply – we’re very well fed, here. Besides our world-class independent restaurants and internationally renowned jewellery trade, we’ve got some large-scale organisations here too. Recently, we welcomed the Canal & River Trust to the heart of the JQ – you can read all about the fantastic work they do and how you can get involved on page 13. This summer is already shaping up to be jam-packed full of activity and events, including the third annual JQ Festival, which takes place in July (see pages 22-23). The Open Studios trail has become an annual tradition in the JQ, and we’re pleased to be able to announce that it will be taking place again this year. For the first time ever, we also welcome Digbeth Dining Club to the Festival – strengthening our world-class food offering this summer. In other news, the JQBID turns five this year, and what a wonderful five years it’s been. During this time, we’ve seen (and supported) so many great initiatives in the Quarter, including safety improvements to vital connections to the city centre, traffic slowing measures, the planting of trees, bespoke Christmas lights and, of course, this very magazine. We can’t wait for you to explore all the Jewellery Quarter has to offer this summer – we hope this magazine will help get you started! To find out more about your JQBID, visit jewelleryquarter.net/jqbid.
QUARTER LIFE – ISSUE ELEVEN
3
5
NEWS Music in the Square. JQ in Bloom. Jewellery Quarter Museum celebrates its 25th year. St Paul’s Square is having a makeover!
ISSUE ELEVEN
The latest from the JQ Clean Team – welcome Dennis!
6 7 8 10
HIVE OF ACTIVITY There’s a real buzz surrounding the JQ’s latest cafe. CANAL & RIVER TRUST: MAKING A SPLASH Find out how you can get involved with your local waterway. CHANGING SPACES
Editor: Suzie Matthews suzie@barques.co.uk 0121 233 2080 Advertising:
This issue, Changing Spaces meets existenzminima. – a new high end furniture, lighting and accessory store.
Luke Crane luke.crane@jqdt.org 0121 233 2814
HISTORY STILL STANDING Take a trip down memory lane with us and see how much history is still standing in the JQ.
Design & Art Direction: Lee Haynes Photography: Lee Allen Francesca Hancox
DINE IN THE JQ Summer’s here, and that means longer days and later nights. Check out our guide to dining in the JQ.
CONTACT US For Jewellery Quarter BID enquiries: info@jqdt.org 0121 233 2814
12 14 16 18 20 22 23 4
I
Published by:
JQ
Sanjeeta Bains, Birmingham Mail, reveals why she loves living in the Jewellery Quarter. OPEN STUDIOS Take a sneak peek into the lives of some of the Jewellery Quarter's most intriguing workers... LIFE THROUGH A LENS Capturing the highlights of the Quarter. This issue, we were at the JQ Festival VIP launch and a Jewellery Quarter Instameet.
Ludgate Place, 23 Ludgate Hill, Birmingham B3 1DX www.barques.co.uk Printed by: John Price Printers Ltd. Brook Street, Bilston,West Midlands WV14 0NW
BE OUR GUEST Here for the festival? We’d be only too happy to accommodate you! JQ AL FRESCO Good weather? Check. Sunglasses? Check. Beer garden? Check...
A magazine by:
JQ FESTIVAL 2017 The third annual JQ Festival is back and it’s bigger and better than ever! WHAT’S ON Dates for your diary.
www.jewelleryquarter.net
QUARTER LIFE – ISSUE ELEVEN
NEWS
Music in the Square Music in the Square returns to the Golden Square this summer with a bigger and better line up than ever before! Music in the Square is a JQBID initiative that will see free live music performances by local jazz acts take over the Golden Square between 12pm and 2pm on selected Fridays from April 28 until August 4. The events are the ideal way to kick start your weekend and a great excuse to get out of the office for an hour or two and enjoy some jazz in the sunshine. To find out more about Music in the Square and other exciting events in the Jewellery Quarter, visit jewelleryquarter.net.
JQ MUSEUM 25TH YEAR
T
he Museum of the Jewellery Quarter has celebrated its 25th anniversary. For 25 years the award-winning Museum of the Jewellery Quarter has opened its doors to the public, offering an insight into the city’s historic jewellery trade. Since opening in 1992 the museum has welcomed around 750,000 visitors through its doors, giving them a unique glimpse of Birmingham’s famous jewellery and metalwork heritage. The anniversary also marks the launch of the Museum of the Jewellery Quarter’s new commercial gallery space in the Smith & Pepper Tea Room, which showcases local artwork and is currently displaying Verity Milligan’s popular photographs of Birmingham until July 29. For more information about The Museum of the Jewellery Quarter, visit birminghammuseums.org.uk/jewellery. Photo taken by @James_never_Jim at the JQ Instameet. Turn to page 16 to see more.
QUARTER LIFE – ISSUE ELEVEN
5
NEWS
St Paul’s Square makeover The next phase of the JQBID’s investment into St Paul’s Square starts over the summer. In true Jewellery Quarter style, benches, bollards, lamps and parking meters are set to be painted black and gold, making the JQ the only part of Birmingham to have black and gold parking meters! This follows the extensive work that the BID has done to give St Paul’s Square a new lease of life, which has included the rewrapping of the trees with fairy lights on the historic square; the replacement of broken and uneven York Stone paving and a decluttering regime, which will see the square kept clean and tidy. For more information on the work that the JQ BID does, go to jewelleryquarter.net/bid.
JQ CLEAN TEAM – WELCOME DENNIS! The JQBID is delighted to announce the arrival of another member of the Clean Team – Dennis Cluley. Dennis joined the team in March and works alongside Clean Team member, Allan, to keep our streets clean by collecting litter, sweeping and reporting fly tipping, graffiti and environmental hazards. On average, the Clean Team collects around 15 bags of litter per day. Prior to his role with the JQBID, Dennis worked at St Paul’s Church for eight years, so is a familiar face around the Quarter.
6
Floral trail The JQ annual floral trail is back this July with a very old favourite, which we are sure you’ll be delighted to welcome back. The ballerina used to be a prominent feature in the JQ and is making a comeback after being refurbished by the JQBID. She will now sit on the Golden Square. Elsewhere, the Wicker Angel will be swooping back into St Paul’s Square, as well as the Hockley Street roundabout display and flower baskets on the blue bridge.
QUARTER LIFE – ISSUE ELEVEN
IN FOCUS
A HIVE OF ACTIVITY A new cafe and bakery in the Jewellery Quarter is causing a real buzz in a former silversmith. We caught up with social enterprise manager Nick McCordall and horticultural tutor, Matthew Hayes about the new addition to the Argent College, Vittoria Street.
OTHER NEW JQ BUSINESSES INCLUDE Ground 101, Newhall Street Papas’ Quarter, Warstone Lane Top Jewellery, Warstone Lane Till You Die Tattoos, Newhall Street Brilliant Diamonds, Warstone Mews Dollhouse Photography, Warstone Lane Jewelmarc, Warstone Lane The Hive Bakery, Argent College Hear 4U Counselling Service, The Big Peg, Vyse Street Lisa & Pann’s Kitchen, Caroline Street SC Alloys, Camden Street The Golden Scoop, The Big Peg, Warstone Lane Pivot and Crop, Legge Lane RJJZ Jazz Café Bar, Livery Street To find out more about these businesses and the many more which call the Quarter home, visit www.jewelleryquarter.net/directory
T
he Hive is a social enterprise initiative and forms part of The New Standard Works. The building, which was empty for 20 years, is already home to Argent College and is operated by Ruskin Mill Trust.
Nick says that this early intervention can have tremendous positive benefits to the young people’s lives by giving them independence, a sense of purpose and invaluable work experience.
The Trust has developed a unique practical skills therapeutic education brand of expertise and works with young people aged 16-25. The environments in which the students learn are ideal for confidence building and allow for a more tailored approach to teaching.
Visitors to The Hive can purchase pastries, hot drinks, or hot meals from the seasonal lunch menu – all baked, cooked, and where possible, grown on site.
Students can learn anything from soap making and leatherwork, to baking and horticulture within the centre’s state-ofthe-art facilities, which include a rooftop micro farm. This fairly new way of practical teaching is particularly successful with students that have experienced difficulty thriving in an academic environment.
The cafe and bakery opened its doors to the public on May 24 and is currently open for business between 7.30am – 3.30pm, Monday to Friday, with plans to extend its opening hours in the near future. This is just the beginning for The New Standard Works, which plans to add a basement theatre and Jewellery Quarter heritage centre to the site this year.
For more information, please call 0121 233 9145, or email nick at nick.mccordall@rmt.org.
QUARTER LIFE – ISSUE ELEVEN
7
CHANGING
SPACES The basement of a former pin and wire works has undergone a major transformation and is now home to the Quarter’s only high-end furniture store. We paid existenzminima. a visit to see how owner, Bal Malhi and his family, have taken an unused Jewellery Quarter basement and turned it into a home for internationally renowned interior design.
8
QUARTER LIFE – ISSUE ELEVEN
T
he basement at Newhall Works on George Street was empty for 10 years before Bal and his family stepped in to create what is now know as existenzminima. The space had no electricity, no running water and was even flooded upon the family’s first visit to the site – but Bal saw a blank canvas, and over the next 15 weeks, he and his family worked tirelessly to bring it up to spec.
existenzminima. stocks everything from sofas and lighting to wine glasses and floor coverings from popular high-end brands such as Alessi, Artek, iittala and Kartell. Bal has worked hard to retain the building’s original features and raw feel, and, with the help and support of his family, designed the majority of the interior themselves. With its exposed brickwork, galvanized steel staircase and scaffoldingstyle shelving, you can almost picture the works of D F Tayler & Co taking place here over 200 years ago. Founded in 1787, D F Tayler & Co at Newhall Works was the largest of its kind in Birmingham with 400 employees and three steam engines. The company specialised in safety and hairpins, hooks and eyes, fasteners, gramophone needles and knitting needles. By 1900, the company was making 12 million pins a day and was described as the largest pin factory in the world. existenzminima. is open Monday-Saturday 10am-6pm and 11am-4pm on Sundays. For more information, visit existenzminima.com.
QUARTER LIFE – ISSUE ELEVEN
9
HISTORY STILL STANDING
The Jewellery Quarter is home to hundreds of fascinating businesses, with news ones opening all the time. But did you know that the Jewellery Quarter is also steeped in rich history?
1779 St Paul’s Church was known as ‘the jewellers’ church’ as many wealthly merchants bought private pews. It took 100 years for this practice to end, allowing the poor to worship (but even then only in the gallery).
1780 The Jam House at 2-3 St Paul’s Square replaced a former nightclub called The Square, but for well over 100 years, it operated as a bullion dealer under the name of Charles Harrold & Co.
1786 Deakin & Francis in Regent Place was established in 1786 to manufacture high quality cufflinks. The rear of the building was part of James Watts’ residence. The building is today run by brothers Henry and James Deakin.
1838 The Elkington Silver Electroplating Works on Newhall Street held patent rights for electroplating - the Wimbledon Ladies Singles Trophy was manufactured here. When the factory closed, it was put to use as Birmingham’s Science Museum.
Illustrations: Sarah Taylor Silverwood
10
QUARTER LIFE – ISSUE ELEVEN
1844 The Ramgarhia Sikh Temple on Graham Street was built in 1844 as a congregational chapel, before being passed to the Methodist New Connexion in 1879. In 1911, it became the Highbury Club: a place that provided meals for local workers. In 1930, it was transformed into the first Elim Tabernacle church in Birmingham, before becoming the temple it is today in 1970.
1863 The Argent Centre on the corner of Frederick Street and Legge Road is now home to the Pen Museum and was, for much of its life, a gold pen and pencil manufacturer for W. E. Wiley. It was also used as a Turkish bath, which worked by using steam from the factory’s boilers.
1877 The Birmingham Assay Office has moved several times since its original home in The Kings Head Inn in the 1700s. In 1877, the Assay Office moved to Newhall Street (pictured), where it later became Assay Studios. In 2015, it made the move to a purpose-built building on Moreton Street. The anchor is Birmingham’s hallmark.
1892
Newman Brothers on Fleet Street was one of only three coffin furniture and shroud manufacturers in England. It was run by the same family for over 100 years, and the factory closed in 1999. It is now the Coffin Works Museum.
QUARTER LIFE – ISSUE ELEVEN
11
Sanjeeta Bains is a journalist and restaurant reviewer for Birmingham Mail, so it makes sense that she lives in the Jewellery Quarter, where we have some of the best bars and restaurants in Birmingham. We caught up with Sanjeeta to find out her favourite places to eat and drink across the JQ... HOW LONG HAVE YOU LIVED IN THE JEWELLERY QUARTER? I moved here last summer, on the same weekend as the Jewellery Quarter Festival. It felt like one long celebration to welcome me to the area! WHAT'S YOUR FAVOURITE THING ABOUT THE JEWELLERY QUARTER? It takes 15 minutes max to walk anywhere! Although the area is ridiculously close to the city centre, it still very much has its own distinct identity. In the centre of JQ, there’s the beautiful St Paul’s Square, the last remaining Georgian square in the city. Whenever I walk through the square and pass St Paul’s Church, I always feel really lucky to live here. IF SOMEBODY WAS VISITING FOR THE FIRST TIME, WHERE WOULD YOU SUGGEST THEY VISIT? Just have a wander around, enjoy the mix of architecture and soak up the history of the place. The Chamberlain Clock, an Edwardian clock tower standing at the junction of Vyse Street and Frederick Street with Warstone Lane, is a Jewellery Quarter landmark. And you cannot leave JQ without a visit to Ana Rocha on Frederick Street. It's a museum, bar, restaurant, art gallery and luxury watch shop all in one! It opened last year and is fast becoming a JQ institution.
12
WHERE ARE YOUR FAVOURITE PLACES TO EAT AND DRINK? How long have I got?! There has been so many cool bar and restaurant openings in the Jewellery Quarter but it’s nice to see the old pubs are still going strong. You can’t beat The Red Lion for a hearty Sunday Roast. The Lord Clifden and The Church on Great Hampton Street are also favourites. Hen and Chickens on Constitution Hill serves up delicious north Indian food, all very modestly priced. Their saag paneer is sensational! Of the more new openings, I like Saint Pauls House for sophisticated after work drinks. 1000 Trades on Frederick Street is a great pub and the place to go for a fun Saturday night. Last but not least, the brilliantly bonkers Ana Rocha - whenever I have friends visiting from London, I take them here. I know a good time at Ana Rocha is guaranteed.
QUARTER LIFE – ISSUE ELEVEN
There’s nothing we like more to do in summer than sit outside with a nice cold drink in one hand and a fork in the other. Let us introduce you to some of the best places to eat in Birmingham, right here in the JQ.
John Penn and Neil Rippington
College of Food University College Birmingham
U
niversity College Birmingham’s College of Food has a second-tonone reputation when it comes to education, boasting an all-star alumni of the likes of Masterchef finalist Claire Hutchings, SortedFood Instagram sensation, Ben Ebbrell, and, more locally, Brad Carter, of Michelin Star Carter’s of Moseley.
Once described as the best-kept secret in Birmingham by celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay, The University’s Atrium and Brasserie are two distinct restaurants that offer the same high quality ingredients and exceptional service with an excellent wine list. The Atrium has an intimate, fine dining feel, while the Brasserie offers a slightly more informal setting for a relaxed dining experience.
It’s also the only place in Birmingham where you’ll pick up a two course meal of hand dived scallops and Cornish supreme of halibut for under £15.
Dining opportunities for the public are endless, and prices are kept down to ensure the restaurants are always full and accessible to all. For an extra special experience, try one of the College of Food’s theme nights. Students are set a brief and are given creative freedom, but are tasked with doing everything from planning, researching, buying ingredients and even promoting their event.
Highly Commended by the AA, UCB's College of Food is not short of awards. As you enter the bar area, a trophy cabinet proudly displays a large collection of accolades from all over the world, including the Nestlé Professional Toque D’Or. This is largely due to the wealth of experience that students can expect to learn from.
The future of University College Birmingham is exciting, the University is launching the next phase of its £100 million investment in student facilities with a £38 million higher education site in the Jewellery Quarter which is set to open in September 2019.
Neil Rippington, dean of the College of Food, and John Penn, assistant dean for Further and Higher Education Food Operations, collectively share nearly 50 years’ experience in the catering industry, and have worked their way up from humble kitchen porters to highly respected head chefs before grasping the opportunity to share their knowledge through educating others.
The Atrium and Brasserie restaurants are open during term time only, and will reopen for bookings in September. For more information, sample menus and bookings, visit the website.
ucb.ac.uk/restaurants
DINE IN THE JQ
–
QUARTER LIFE
Roni Ferro
Cucina Pasta Rustica Di Piazza I
f you’ve ever eaten out in the Jewellery Quarter, the chances are you’ve experienced some tasty Italian cuisine.
walk through the door, you instantly feel at home (if home was Italy, of course). Roni has spent 19 years recreating a home-from-home, and this labour of love is apparent in every bite.
Cucina Rustica and Pasta Di Piazza are just a few roads away from each other, but arguably worlds apart in decor and atmosphere.
While Pasta Di Piazza may seem traditional on the outside, it is forward thinking when it comes to the menu – something that can largely be attributed to the number of great Italian chefs that Pasta Di Piazza has seen over the years. It is also for this reason that the menu is so extensive – every item of food and drink you see is influenced by a different region of Italy (of which there are many).
Cucina Rustica is the baby of the family. The restaurant was opened in 2010 on Ludgate Hill by Roni Ferro and his business partner, Albert, but needed a complete refurbishment. Its contemporary decor is complimented by romantic, picturesque images of Italy adorning the walls, making it the perfect location to enjoy a business lunch or romantic meal for two. On hot summer days (or cold ones, if you’re brave), diners can eat al fresco on Cucina’s outdoor dining area.
To run two successful businesses just minutes from each other is a real testament to Roni and his team. His advice to budding restaurateurs is simple: have patience. A restaurant is more than just food – it’s a destination, an experience and crucially, a brand. As they say... Rome wasn’t built in a day.
Pasta Di Piazza (pictured) is a long-standing veteran of the JQ and will undoubtedly be here for future generations to enjoy. The moment you
pastadipiazza.com
DINE IN THE JQ
cucinarustica.co.uk
–
QUARTER LIFE
Clive Green
Devon House I
n December, we welcomed family-run Jamaican restaurant and bar Devon House to the Jewellery Quarter.
Clive Green started his career in the catering industry with his takeaway business just minutes away on Constitution Hill. Originally from a sales background, Clive had an ambition to ditch the desk and start his own business back in 2012, and so he opened his first food outlet – Portland Lagoon. Clive found a gap in the Jamaican food market. Birmingham has plenty of takeaways, but he soon discovered that Jamaican sit-down restaurants were under represented in the city. His customers were crying out for the same delicious flavours in a relaxed restaurant setting, and it was then that Devon House was born. Clive already knew the Jewellery Quarter well, and knew his restaurant would flourish in such a diverse location. His ambition is to create a brand that young and hungry chefs can grow with, by giving them a platform to come in and express themselves through cooking. Devon House is named after the home of George Stiebel, the first recorded black millionaire, in Kingston, Jamaica. The decor is simple and clean, with accents of colour – much like the food. Expect traditional favourites, including jerk chicken, curried goat, and ackee and saltfish; as well as some extra special dishes, including baked salmon with a cream of rum sauce and delicately seasoned sea bass (they do some pretty impressive cocktails, too). In the near future, Clive hopes to open more Devon Houses across the West Midlands, but for now, you can enjoy a little slice of Jamaica right here in the Jewellery Quarter. devonhouse.co.uk
DINE IN THE JQ
–
QUARTER LIFE
Dan Anderson
Anderson’s A
nderson’s Bar and Grill is a household name when it comes to dining out in the Jewellery Quarter.
With more awards than you can count, Anderson’s has truly made a name for itself as the number one grill in the city, but the menu has and always will remain totally unique. Anderson’s only serves 100% British, quality, rare breed beef – something that Dan is proud of. Working closely with the Rare Breed Survival Trust (RBST), Anderson’s is dedicated to supporting the sustainability and ancestral heritage of Britain’s beef, and is eager to pass on this knowledge to its customers.
With its exposed brick, low oak ceiling beams and quirky artwork, it’s easy to see why the bar and grill was once named ‘most romantic restaurant’ by The Independent in 2015. Set in the picturesque St Paul’s Square in an eighteenth century cellar, Anderson’s is run by head chef, Dan Anderson, and director, Nick Crudgington. Ten years ago, Dan was the head chef at Nick’s fine dining restaurant, The Bucklemaker. When news broke that The Bucklemaker was set to close in 2009, Dan approached Nick to create a restaurant that was accessible, sustainable and served high quality food with excellent service. It was then that Anderson’s, Birmingham’s first dedicated premier steak restaurant, was born.
This year, Anderson’s is looking for new ways to be self sufficient, including dry ageing its own cuts of beef on site and creating its very own, off-site kitchen garden. The kitchen garden will give the restaurant new opportunities to grow lost varieties of fruits and vegetables, wild edible flowers and heritage vegetables. Diners looking to expand their horizons should watch this space!
andersonsbarandgrill.co.uk
DINE IN THE JQ
–
QUARTER LIFE
Christopher John James
Otto W
hen most of us think pizza, we think Italian. Christopher John James is challenging this – everything about Otto, besides its name, is distinctly Birmingham – which must be why it feels so homely. The artwork adorning the walls is recognisably Brummie, and all can be purchased during your visit. The local feel continues right through to the taps – you can order a pint that was brewed less than half a mile away at Burning Soul Brewery or pick up a bottle of Rock n Roll Brewery’s finest ale to wash down your pizza. Otto serves a short yet perfectly crafted menu. Each pizza is made to order and cooked for just two minutes over 500 degrees of burning Spanish beech logs. Could this be the secret ingredient? Chris studied right here in the JQ at the Birmingham College of Food before going to the University of Sheffield. But it was in London that he got a true taste for the catering industry, where he worked for seven years before concluding that he wanted to start his own business. Chris used his experiences in London to inspire both of his ventures, the first of which was a successful deli, the 8 Foot Grocer, which he opened a year before Otto. Both venues have a certain charm that only comes with years of history. The 8 Foot Grocer was once the depot of a biscuit factory, while Otto used to be a vintage clothing shop. The interior has a rustic feel with exposed brick and bare wood. All furniture and the bar has been beautifully hand crafted by uMake – a furnishings designer located on the edge of the Quarter who was also responsible for the interior of 1000 Trades. To ensure optimum quality, Otto only serves eight types of pizzas plus two specials. Where possible, all ingredients (and drinks) are locally sourced. ottowoodfired.com
DINE IN THE JQ
–
QUARTER LIFE
Syed Mohammed
Lasan I
f there’s one thing Birmingham isn’t short of, it’s curry houses – but in 2002, Jabbar Khan and award-winning chef Aktar Islam had a vision to bring Indian fine dining to the heart of the Jewellery Quarter. Lasan has been unparalleled ever since, and has been named as Gordon Ramsay's Best Local Restaurant in the UK.
its many possibilities afforded by the restaurant’s split levels, offering intimacy and cosiness whilst still feeling open and spacious. Lasan is not your average Indian restaurant. Every single ingredient is sourced from high-end suppliers and is cooked using a unique and modern method to ensure optimum quality, whilst still retaining a traditional foundation. The menu is short and succinct, allowing Syed’s team to be masters of their trade. Because the menu isn’t excessive, Syed and his team are constantly refreshing their options, giving return customers something to look forward to each time they visit.
Lasan Group started as just one restaurant on James Street, just off St. Paul’s Square, 15 years ago, when the Jewellery Quarter was very different. With a small budget and a big dream, Jabbar went to India in search of a full team for his restaurant. It was there that he met Syed, who has been general manager of Lasan ever since.
General manager’s tip: all of Lasan’s chefs originated from the coastal regions of India, so Syed recommends that, if you’re unsure of what to order, you always try the fish.
Syed studied restaurant management in Switzerland and has worked across the world in many different catering and hospitality establishments, including Germany, Italy and France.
Lasan is part of Lasan Group, which includes Raja Monkey in Hall Green, Fiesta Del Asado in Edgbaston, Izza Pizza in Selfridges and Nosh & Quaff, Colmore Row.
As soon as you enter Lasan, you are instantly met with a warm welcome and tasteful decor. Jabbar originally fell in love with the building for
lasangroup.com
DINE IN THE JQ
–
QUARTER LIFE
Ejdani Ghulum
Konya's Gold T
he Jewellery Quarter has always been home to a wide variety of cuisines from around the globe, but never have we had a Turkish restaurant. As it turns out, now we have two!
Both brothers fell in love with Turkey at a young age. It was there that they became inspired by the food and atmosphere and decided to bring a little piece of Turkey home to Birmingham. The pair couldn’t believe their luck when the site, which used to be an Indian restaurant, became available on Pitsford Street.
In September last year, the Jewellery Quarter was lucky enough to get its first Turkish restaurant – Konya’s Gold.
Ejdani and Kilbria chose the decor for Konya’s Gold and had everything from the tiles to the light fittings and wallpaper shipped over from Turkey. On hot days, you can enjoy your meal in the sunshine on a little tucked-away terrace at the back of the restaurant.
The 28-cover restaurant serves authentic Turkish cuisine with an Arabian twist. On the menu is Baba Ghanoush, lamb kofte and traditional Turkish sweet favourite, baklava. What’s more, unlike most restaurants in the Jewellery Quarter, Konya’s Gold is unlicensed, meaning you can wash it all down with your own bottle.
Ejdani and Kilbria are working alongside head chef Hamad, who has over 25 years' experience and has cooked across the world, to extend their menu, and are planning to bring some exciting traditional Turkish favourites to the table. İskender, a hugely popular dish in northwest Turkey, and pide, Turkey’s well-loved answer to pizza, will soon be available to eat in, takeaway or order via Uber Eats.
Konya’s Gold is the brainchild of brothers Ejdani and Kilbria Ghulum. The brothers come from a long line of caterers – both their father and grandfather were restaurateurs and ran traditional Indian curry houses in Birmingham, but Edjdani and Kilbria felt that the market was over saturated and wanted to try something different.
konyasgold.co.uk
DINE IN THE JQ
–
QUARTER LIFE
C A N A L
&
R I V E R
T R U S T
MAKING A
This year, the JQ gave a big warm welcome to the Canal & River Trust. The trust made the decision to move its Midlands office from Fazeley in Tamworth to the aptly named Aqua House on Lionel Street in order to benefit from the excellent transport links and increase the charity’s presence in Britain’s ‘canal capital’. Stuart Mills, property director for the Canal & River Trust said; “Birmingham has the greatest concentration of canals in the country, and lies at the heart of our network; and yet previously we had limited presence there. Moving our main Midlands base from Fazeley into central Birmingham will give us greater flexibility, more connectivity and the opportunity to create a new national base - for both our Midlands and central teams.” Birmingham is the ‘canal capital’ of Britain and is at the heart of the canal network. You’ve probably heard the phrase “more canals than Venice” – but did you know there are almost as many ways to get involved with your waterways as there are canals?
ADOPT A CANAL Communities can now adopt a stretch of canal or river and help to make a real difference to your environment and it’s happening all over the country. Right now, there are people getting together to plant, litter-pick, weed and just generally make our waterways a nicer place to be. And you can get involved too! The Jewellery Quarter Neighbourhood Forum (JQNF) is keen to adopt the stretch of canal that runs through the JQ. Find out more at the next JQNF Open Meeting or email Thomas Wildish at twildish@gmail.com. For details on the whole Adopt a Canal scheme, visit canalrivertrust.org.uk.
COMMUNITY ROOTS PROJECT Community Roots is part of the Trust’s on-going, nationwide plans to diversify the range of people engaging with the waterways.
JOIN ‘THE GOOD GYM’
Working with renowned local street artists, the Community Roots Project works to spruce up neglected areas of the waterway, instilling a sense of pride and ownership in the local community and young people, combating destructive graffiti with art and positive messaging.
Do Good. Get fit. This is the ethos of The Good Gym. The group, run by personal trainer Jonny Carter, runs along the canal once a month and stops half way along its route to perform a ‘good deed’ for the Canal & River Trust. This can be anything from planting a tree, to cleaning the waterways. The group meets every Tuesday at 6pm at 1000 Trades, Frederick Street.
For more information about Community Roots, email Nick.Cleaver@canalrivertrust.org.uk or visit facebook.com/communityrootsbirmingham.
To get involved, just turn up, or for more information, visit goodgym.org.
Graffiti and ‘tagging’ can be a big problem on walls and bridges along all canals and waterways, so the Canal & River Trust teamed up with the Esmée Fairbairn Association to tackle the problem head on.
QUARTER LIFE – ISSUE ELEVEN
13
2017
29-30
2017
The Jewellery Quarter Open Studios Trail is back for 2017 and invites you to explore the world of our designer makers. Across the weekend of the Jewellery Quarter Festival, July 29-30, more than 40 venues will open their doors to the public, giving you an inside look at what goes on behind the scenes of some of the JQ’s most inspiring spaces. Open Studios is not only a chance for visitors to take a sneaky peak behind closed doors – it’s also a rare opportunity to get up close and personal with some of the country’s most established makers and learn more about the many trades within the Quarter.
14
QUARTER LIFE – ISSUE ELEVEN
ALYN WATERMAN
DUAL WORKS
Alyn Waterman will be treating visitors to make up tutorials, tips and hairstyling to showcase his work as a professional make up artist. Alyn works closely with students at University College Birmingham (UCB) and has invited a group of professional hair and make up students to provide complimentary makeovers to JQ Festival visitors.
Dual Works is a shared creative studio in the heart of the JQ run by Zoe Robertson and Stephen Snell. The duo create their own individual artistic projects, make bespoke commissions and run workshops including ‘Girls with Power Tools’: a one day, hands-on workshop exploring construction techniques and every day DIY jobs for beginners. Pop along and see if there’s a workshop for you!
WYRDWOOD
GUILDSMAN GALLERY
Wyrdwood is a designer maker based in Vyse Street that specialises in handmade unique and bespoke jewellery. See two jewellers working hard at their benches and get a deeper insight into the jewellery-making process. Husband and wife team David and Sandra Hubble will be on hand to answer any burning industry questions you may have.
During Open Studios, customers of the Guildsman Jewellery Gallery will be able to make their own silver bracelet, choosing from a selection of silver chain links, fixings and charms. The Build-a-Bracelet workshop will run from 10am until 4pm and in addition, the Gallery will be serving free tea and cake.
1000 TRADES
16 Frederick Street ADP ARCHITECHTURE
BPN ARCHITECTS
3 Mary Street
FRILLY INDUSTRIES
RBSA
STANS CAFE
89 Spencer Street
4 Brook Street
110 Northwood Street
GOSIA WEBER
SUMMER AND SILVER
33a Vittoria Street
59e Caroline Street
53a Frederick Street
RAMGARHIA SIKH TEMPLE
ALYN WATERMAN
BURNING SOUL BREWERY
GUILDSMAN JEWELLERY
RHIANNON LEWIS
Unit 1 Mott Street
86 Spencer Street
Unit 6, 94 Spencer Street
1000 Trades, 16 Frederick Street
CENTREPIECE
HUB STUDIOS
ROCK N ROLL BREWHOUSE
THE QUARTERWORKSHOP
Regent Place
13-15 Fleet Street
44 Vyse Street ANDUPHOLSTER
42 Vyse Street ARGENTEA GALLERY
28 St Paul’s Square ARTFULL EXPRESSION
23 Warstone Lane ARTISAN ALCHEMY
85 Caroline Street B18 LEATHER
7 Pitsford Street BECCA WILLIAMS
Unit 31, 31 Hylton Street BEO LONDON
3 Warstone Lane BIRMINGHAM INDEPENDENT RECORD MARKET
BUG JEWELLERY
13c Pitsford Street
34 Tenby Street
CHOCOLATE QUARTER
JAMES NEWMAN
1a Spencer Street
49 Vyse Street
CITIZEN HOME
KARLUS G, TAILOR
82 Vyse Street
17f Vyse Street
DUAL WORKS 23a Kenyon Street
KATE GILLILAND
ELENI ZOLIA Unit 3, Plantagenet Building, 94 Spencer Street
MUSEUM OF THE JEWELLERY QUARTER
EXISTENZMINIMA 58 George Street
OCTAVIUS
TINA FRANCIS
7 Pitsford Street
SCHOOL OF JEWELLERY
TWO TOWERS BREWERY
82-86 Vittoria Street SHELANU
7 Pitsford Street
29 Shadwell Street VISUALE
22 Regents Place
SPRING HILL STITCHERS
WHERE WOOL MEETS
7 Pitsford Street
7 Pitsford Street
ST PAULS CHURCH
WYRDWOOD STUDIO
St. Paul’s Square
17e Vyse Street
PEN MUSEUM
Unit 3 The Argent Centre, 60 Frederick St
THE EMMA PRESS
RUTH GREEN
75-80 Vyse Street Branston Court, Vyse Street
88 Vyse Street
7 Pitsford Street
59e Caroline Street
FELLOWS AUCTION HOUSE
19 Augusta Street
51 Graham Street
ST PAULS GALLERY
94 Northwood Street
118 Great Hampton Street
Participating businesses subject to change.
QUARTER LIFE – ISSUE ELEVEN
15
I(GERS) SPY JQBID teamed up with Igers Birmingham to host an instameet across the Quarter. The instagramers were invited to visit the Quarter’s historic landmarks and award-winning businesses as part of International World Wide Instameet Day. Instagramers visited the Quarter Workshop, the Coffin Works, Barberology, Lily Jones and ended the day at 1000 Trades, where they were given a sneak peak at the bar’s upstairs space ahead of its expansion.
Photo: @Mr.simsingh
Photo: @cpf_photography
Photo: @iamjamesburnett
16
Photo: @James_never_Jim
Photo: @tomgracie
Photo: @duskyblueskies
QUARTER LIFE – ISSUE ELEVEN
Photo: @Mr.simsingh
JQ Festival VIP launch Special guests were invited to a preview evening at Argentea Gallery ahead of the JQ Festival and JQ Open Studios. Over drinks and canapĂŠs, guests learnt about all of the exciting entertainment that the JQBID has planned for the event on 28-30 July. jewelleryquarter.net/jq-festival
Photographs: Jas Sansi QUARTER LIFE – ISSUE ELEVEN
17
Boe u r guest 18
WITH A VAST NUMBER OF SHOPS, BARS AND RESTAURANTS (NOT TO MENTION THE JQ FESTIVAL IN JULY) IN THE QUARTER, YOU CAN’T ALWAYS CAPTURE THE JQ EXPERIENCE IN ONE DAY. WITH THAT IN MIND, YOU MIGHT BE WONDERING WHERE YOU’RE GOING TO STAY, SO WE’VE PUT TOGETHER THIS HANDY GUIDE TO HELP YOU TO ENJOY YOUR NIGHT AS MUCH AS YOUR DAY.
QUARTER LIFE – ISSUE ELEVEN
Hatters FROM £12 / WIFI: FREE
BLOC Hotel FROM £45 / WIFI: FREE
Travelodge FROM £45 / WIFI: 30 MINUTES FREE OR £3 FOR 24 HOURS
Based on Livery Street, Hatters is officially Birmingham’s most popular hostel, and it’s easy to see why. With beds for as little as just £12 per night, free breakfast and private en-suite bathrooms, Hatters is shattering the misconception and raising the bar for hostels everywhere.
For the ideal sleep that won’t break your budget, BLOC Hotel has worked with a Scandinavian sleep institute to get everything in your room perfect for a good night’s sleep. Inspired by Japanese capsule hotels, BLOC’s rooms and apartments were actually manufactured off site, and then stacked in their new permanent location on Caroline Street. The hotel was then cleverly built around them!
You can never go too wrong with a Travelodge and their King-size Sleepeezee beds. Simple, stylish, and perfectly central, the Newhall Street Travelodge benefits from its own on-site restaurant and bar, as well as a convenience store below, so you can pick up everything you need for your stay without even having to step outside.
hattershostels.com
blochotels.com
travelodge.co.uk
Saint Pauls House FROM £85 / WIFI: FREE
Ibis Styles FROM £43 / WIFI: FREE
Staycity Aparthotel FROM £60 / WIFI: FREE
Saint Pauls House is a boutique, 34-room hotel located on St Paul’s Square. Boasting an impressive 10MB of free Wi-Fi, room service, luxury bedding and a waterfall shower in every en-suite, Saint Pauls House is ideal for a romantic getaway.
The Ibis Styles on Lionel Street is a popular choice with visitors to the Barclaycard Arena due to its close proximity to the canal shortcut. All-inclusive prices mean no surprises at the end of your stay. Its simple yet vibrant decor and nice snug duvets all contribute to a good night’s rest, while its all-you-can-eat breakfast buffet is included in the price and is a great way to kick start your day.
Staycity Aparthotel Newhall Square is suitable for groups and families and offers a slightly different experience than the average hotel. Each apartment benefits from a small kitchen, en suite bathroom, dining area and living room. It also has its own bar and is handily located above a Co-Op convenience store, so you don’t need to go far to find the ingredients to cook up the perfect breakfast.
ibis.com/ibisstyles
staycity.com
saintpaulshouse.com
QUARTER LIFE – ISSUE ELEVEN
19
The Lord Clifden,
GREAT HAMPTON STREET With one of the biggest beer gardens in the Jewellery Quarter, The Lord Clifden has almost as many awards under its belt as it does continental beers on tap (which you can use to wash down that chunky fish finger sandwich or traditional Sunday roast).
The Church Inn,
GREAT HAMPTON STREET The Church describes itself as “Louisiana cookin’ meets French Bistro elegance”. Influenced by the New Orleans French quarter, enjoy ribs, grilled cheese, burgers and gumbo all on The Church’s rooftop terrace.
It’s hard to believe that somewhere as urban and industrial as the Jewellery Quarter can have so many outdoor spaces to eat and drink – but we do. Whether it’s a romantic meal for two at Cucina Rustica or a lunchtime pint at the Rose Villa Tavern, there’s a beer garden for any occasion here in the JQ.
THE LORD CLIFDEN
20
QUARTER LIFE – ISSUE ELEVEN
The Shakespeare Inn, SUMMER ROW
The unexpectedly large patio garden at The Shakespeare Inn has plenty of seating, heating and space to enjoy your fresh, cold pint without any danger of spilling it.
THE CHURCH INN
The Button Factory, FREDERICK STREET
Okay, so it might not quite be a beer garden as such, but the newly refurbished The Button Factory has a huge balcony, much larger than most inner city gardens, overlooking the hustle and bustle of Frederick Street (plus, it has fake grass. We’re sure that makes it a garden).
Other open spaces in the Jewellery Quarter where you can enjoy a bite to eat and a pint: Cucina Rustica Ludgate Hill The Actress and Bishop Ludgate Hill
The Queens Arms,
Rose Villa Tavern
Saint Paul’s House St Paul’s Square
To look at The Queens Arms from the front, you’d be forgiven for assuming that this is one Jewellery Quarter pub without a beer garden, but you’d be wrong! Although small, this traditional local pub and its newly refurbished beer garden is one of only seven of Birmingham’s city centre pubs listed in the CAMRA 2017 Good Beer Guide.
The Rose Villa Tavern is situated in the heart of the Quarter and its popular roadside terrace boasts the best view of Chamberlain Clock, whilst its heated beer garden and outhouse is the perfect place to relax, whatever the weather.
Fleet Street Kitchen Summer Row
NEWHALL STREET
WARSTONE LANE
QUARTER LIFE – ISSUE ELEVEN
The Rectory St Paul’s Square
21
2017 JQ Festival is back for 2017 for what promises to be the biggest one yet. Organised by the JQBID with support from local businesses, the three-day event is for visitors and families as well as anyone who lives, learns or works in the Quarter.
22
QUARTER LIFE – ISSUE ELEVEN
what’s on For all the details of what’s on locally visit jewelleryquarter.net/whatson
MUSIC IN THE SQUARE Every fortnight until August 4 Noon – 2.00pm Golden Square
JEWELLERY QUARTER COMEDY CLUB Every first Tuesday of the month 8.00pm – 11.30pm The Rose Villa Tavern
VINTAGE TEA AND TOUR
What?
Every Wednesday 2.00pm – 4.00pm The Coffin Works
The party starts straight from the office. At 4pm, the annual traditional after-work party starts at the Golden Square, with street food from Digbeth Dining Club. Try not to enjoy yourself too much, though – Saturday kicks off early on the Golden Square with a range of activities, live music, entertainment and performances suitable for the whole family. For a more chilled affair, head to St. Paul’s Square for ambient live music and swing dancing. Forgot your picnic? No problem! There will be a place to purchase your picnic (complete with blanket) on the day.
Where?
TOPLOADER July 20 6.00pm – 1.00am The Jam House
JQ FESTIVAL 2017 July 28 – 30
OPEN STUDIOS TRAIL
The main festival will take place across two sites this year, so be sure to visit both of them to get the full experience: the Golden Square on Warstone Lane and St. Paul’s Square. Don’t forget – the Open Studios Trail takes place across the whole of the Quarter, so pick up a map from one of many venues across the city or download from our website to make sure you don’t miss out!
July 29 – 30
FREE OPEN DAY July 29 10.30am – 5pm Museum of the Jewellery Quarter
When?
The JQ Festival will take place over the weekend of Friday 28-30 Sunday July and is completely free to attend. For more information, visit jewelleryquarter.net/jq-festival.
QUARTER LIFE – ISSUE ELEVEN
To tell us about an event email parv.gandham@jqdt.org
23